A detention center, also known as a detention facility or detention center, is a secure facility where individuals are held in custody by government authorities, typically for immigration-related reasons, pending legal proceedings, or as part of criminal investigations. Detention centers may be operated by various government agencies, including immigration authorities, law enforcement agencies, or the department of corrections.

In the context of immigration, detention centers are used to hold individuals who are subject to immigration enforcement, such as undocumented immigrants, asylum seekers, or individuals awaiting deportation proceedings. These facilities may house individuals who are awaiting a decision on their immigration status, undergoing asylum interviews, or awaiting transportation to another location for removal from the country.

Detention centers vary widely in terms of size, capacity, and conditions, ranging from small holding facilities to large, purpose-built complexes. They may provide basic accommodations such as sleeping quarters, dining facilities, and recreational areas, as well as access to legal counsel, medical care, and other essential services.

However, concerns have been raised about the conditions in some detention centers, including overcrowding, inadequate medical care, and violations of detainees’ rights. Advocates for immigration reform and human rights often call for improvements in detention center conditions and alternatives to detention for individuals awaiting immigration proceedings.